Demi Vollering, the reigning European champion, is set to commence her 2026 season at the Setmana Ciclista Valenciana, a four-day stage race in Spain. As a member of FDJ United-SUEZ, Vollering enters the competition as the clear favourite for the overall victory. However, she will face strong competition from riders such as Cédrine Kerbaol, Liane Lippert, and Antonia Niedermaier. (cyclingnews.com)
Race Overview
The Setmana Ciclista Valenciana comprises four stages, covering a total distance of 481.5 kilometres. The opening stage, starting in Gandia, features a hilly finale that will test the riders’ climbing abilities. The second stage in Vila-Real offers a flat profile, providing an opportunity for sprinters to shine. The third stage is particularly challenging, with the Alto Tudons and Alto Confrides climbs in the final 50 kilometres, accumulating over 2,600 metres of elevation gain. The concluding stage towards Valencia includes several hills but finishes with a flat section, potentially favouring a sprint finish. (cyclingnews.com)
Vollering’s Previous Performance
In the previous edition of the Setmana Ciclista Valenciana, Vollering delivered an impressive performance, securing the overall victory. She initiated her campaign with a decisive solo attack on the opening stage, distancing herself from former teammates Marlen Reusser and Anna van der Breggen. Vollering maintained her lead throughout the subsequent stages, ultimately clinching the title with a 34-second margin over Reusser and 37 seconds ahead of van der Breggen. (cyclingnews.com)
Key Competitors
Vollering’s primary competitors include Cédrine Kerbaol, Liane Lippert, and Antonia Niedermaier. FDJ United-SUEZ’s roster also features strong riders such as Amber Kraak, Elise Chabbey, and Evita Muzic, who will support Vollering in her quest for victory. Other notable contenders are world champion Magdeleine Vallieres, Pauliena Rooijakkers, and Liane Lippert, who has demonstrated strong performances in hilly terrains. (cyclingnews.com)
Sprint Contenders
With Lorena Wiebes absent from this race, the flat stages present opportunities for sprinters like Elisa Balsamo, Nienke Veenhoven, Cat Ferguson, and Eleonora Camilla Gasparrini. However, they will need to navigate the hilly sections effectively, as each stage includes at least 1,000 metres of elevation gain. (cyclingnews.com)
Race Coverage
The Setmana Ciclista Valenciana will not be broadcast on Eurosport or HBO Max. Instead, the organisers provide an online livestream via YouTube and their official website. For the most accurate and up-to-date broadcast times, please refer to the organisers’ official channels. (cyclingnews.com)
As Vollering embarks on her 2026 season, all eyes will be on her performance at the Setmana Ciclista Valenciana, where she aims to defend her title and set the tone for the upcoming challenges.